DESCRIPTION: Length up to 8mm. These stunning little bugs are a variable species with red and black form having dark marks  (with pale grey behind) along the edge of the corium. The nymph is pale yellow and orange with dark brown or black pronotum and markings on the dorsal side of the abdomen. BEHAVIOUR: This ravenous bug sucks the sap of plants, especially crucifers  such as cabbage, cress and radish. It has the potential to become a parasite that can damage crops. It overwinters as an adult. DISTRIBUTION: A fairly recent arrival in the UK, but now established in some coastal areas between Devon and Sussex, with scattered records from other parts of southern England and East Anglia. HABITAT: Field margins, arable areas, hedgerows or anywhere were the foodplant is available. PERIOD: Adults seen all year round but best seen from spring to late summer.